Featured foodservice employers
Bartlett Mitchell A huge variety of roles come with its portfolio of varied clients p70
BaxterStorey Our people are the most important ingredient for our long-term success p72
CH&Co Group Opportunities for young talent p78
Elior We focus on the progression of our colleagues p90
Harrison Catering Harrison strives to be always the employer of choice p100
ISS Food and Hospitality ISS offers an Academy of Excellence and strong paths into management roles p104
Rapport Rapport guest services train and nurture front and back-of- house staff p122
Restaurant Associates We offer great career opportunities for everyone p126
Case study Back of house
Who Maria Dare Ojo What Apprentice commis chef Where Restaurant Associates, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland
www.compass-group.co.uk
How did you start your career at Restaurant Associates? I joined the apprenticeship scheme run by its parent company, Compass Group. I had an initial trial at one of its Canary Wharf sites, catering at an international law firm, and they decided to keep me on.
We hear you are about to take a step up – possibly abroad? Yes. I recently completed my apprenticeship and received an NVQ level 2, as well as an award for the Restaurant Associates sector apprentice of the year. My learning and development mentor put me in contact with Compass Netherlands, and I have an interview scheduled later this month for the position of demi-chef de partie at a restaurant in Amsterdam.
How have you been able to progress your career so quickly? Through the endless support and guidance I have received. I’ve had days and sometimes weeks away from my normal job to support events at amazing venues, including two large sporting events, on board a Royal Navy warship and a government dinner at Westminster. I’ve also taken part in nationwide competitions and exhibitions, book launches, forums, sales pitches and had the chance to work with chefs such as Albert Roux. All of these opportunities have not only helped me to develop my skills
and experience, but also enabled me to network with colleagues and clients. And thanks to all of the culinary knowledge I’ve gained, I won a bronze award at the Compass Junior Chef of the Year competition.
Did you know?
The food and service management sector generates more than
£4.25b in turnover for the UK economy BHA report 2014
What do you enjoy most about your current role? The team I work with. It’s a caring and supportive family here. I always feel that, even in my position as commis chef, my opinion is valued and my input is taken seriously. I have the freedom to suggest new changes to the menu and how the kitchen functions.
What would you say to someone wanting to follow your footsteps? Go for it. You’ll meet some real characters and be out of your comfort zone more than you’d like, but the rewards are endless. If you work hard and push yourself, and show commitment and determination, it will always pay off. I’ll never regret signing up for a Compass apprenticeship.
Maria’s top tip on getting ahead fast “Whatever you put into your work is what you’ll get out of it”
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